Achranga Dighi, a traditional monument of ancient civilization, is located in Mamudpur union of Kshetlal upazila of Joypurhat district. According to locals, during the reign of Moun Bhatt, the zamindar of the original dynasty of Tahirpur in Rajshahi district, the agricultural lands became almost unfit for cultivation due to low rainfall. Maun Bhatta dug this lake in the mid-9th century (c. 817 AD) to make agricultural lands suitable for cultivation. Spread over an area of about 26 acres, Acharanga Dighi is 1000 feet long and 1070 feet wide. Aman paddy was cultivated in this region in the month of Agrahayan with the water of Acharanga Dighi. At the beginning of Paush, the red color of paddy fields looked strangely beautiful and that’s why this upazila was named Khetlal.
Acharanga Dighi is surrounded by 4 tied ghats and numerous green groves. And in this area, there are various folk tales around Dighi. According to legend, Dighi water was used as a medicine for various diseases in ancient times as it was clear and sweet like crow’s eye water and traditional religious rituals were organized around the Dighi. In 1992, re-excavation of the Acharanga lake was undertaken for reforestation. About 12 ancient statues found at that time are currently preserved in various museums of the country. During winter, many visitors flock to spend time in the charming natural environment of this lake, which is teeming with the chirping of various kinds of guest birds.
How to go
Joypurhat district can be reached by various buses bound for Rajshahi from Gabtali, Mohakhali, Abdullahpur and Shyamoli of the capital. Besides, there is an opportunity to go to Joypurhat by Nilsagar, Ekta and Hritzan Express trains from Kamalapur railway station. After reaching Kshetlal upazila by bus from Joypurhat district, you can go to Achranga Dighi which is 9 km away by local transport.